MEMBERS of the Pontypool Runners First Steps group are gearing up to take part in the Mic Morris 10k race on July 20.

The beginners running club was formed last year and now has around 57 members, with the majority taking part in the Mic Morris 10k race on July 20.

Member, Gaynor Devine, 64, wants to encourage others to take up running as she said running has given her a new lease of life.

She explained that three years ago she lost her husband and she turned into a coach potato.

But then a friend suggested that she should give running a try to keep fit.

“About five months ago I joined the beginner’s group and I love it,” she said.

“I never thought I would take up running but now I can never see myself stopping,” she said. She can now run 2.7 miles without stopping and has started training for the Mic Morris run, her first charity race.

All donations will go towards the Mic Morris Sporting Trust, which honours policeman Mic Morris, who died while on a training jog in 1983, aged just 24.

The event is expected to draw more than 500, with the Free Press helping to make it the biggest yet.

Anyone interested in taking part can get application forms from Cwmbran Stadium and Pontypool Active Living Centre. Runners can also get in touch with Christine Philpott on 01633 628936, or email christine.philpott@torfaen.gov.uk